tuckerdc

OK.

Have a "hard-to-fit" foot (Read: Expensive. Read: Large).

Headed to Alaska (cruise/daytrips) this summer. Need to get a handle on a basic shoe for off-ship excursions.

Between the cost of my shoes ($$$) and the packing factor (they take up A LOT of room), I'd like to not make any mistakes. Also, would like not to rely on a big, chunky, New Balance or other type-athletic shoe....as that just makes my clodhoppers look....hoppier. Or...cloddier.

So...seeking enlightnenment on a weather-worthy, not too clompy (if that's possible) style suggestion.

Big-time hiking not gonna happen. But not sure how far off the beaten path some of our in-search-of-nature day trips might take us, or what kind of weather to prepare for.

I have a comfortable pair of canvas Sperry TopSiders...if they could just dry out each day...is it likely something like that would do? Or do I need to go more "heavy-duty?"

Thanks!

Gardyloo

I think your Topsiders will probably be fine; maybe some Merrill-type slip-ons if you want something with more ankle coverage.

A surefire way for locals to recognize tourists is to look for those wearing Bean boots, waffle stompers or other "wilderness" footwear, or clad in Gore-tex or parkas in July.

And worst case, there are shoe stores in the towns. Remember too that you're going into the land of Bigfoot.

repete

You could pack a second pair of those topsiders, or as gardyloo notes, those slip-ons with a big higher top will save you in all but the sloppiest of conditions. If you get a very rainy day, those topsiders aren't great puddlejumpers.

BudgetQueen

Myself, I would never consider taking anything canvas. It is not going to dry in one day. The problem will be rain, since it gets and stay damp.

Can they be given a couple sprays with water resistant shoe spray. I would go with several coats and just be careful.

If they do get damp, put a loose hand towel in each one, the wicking action helps them dry faster.

dfrostnh

Waitaminute Gardyloo (LOL), I bought some LL Bean hiking shoes lucking into something that fit my big feet at one of their outlet stores. Great to wear in wet or slushy weather so they've become my favorite everyday winter shoe. The style of the shoe makes my feet look smaller. Also wore sport sandals on our first trip and got salmon yuck on them. Quickly gave them a bleach wash so I didn't walk around attracting bears. I like a tie shoe for climbing in and out of boats, rough trails, etc. We spent one weekend with a lot of locals who wore mostly work boots. It was hot so some of us switched to sandals but in general dry feet is an important safety rule for people who spend a lot of time outdoors. If you plan on returning to a warm room at night, wet feet are probably not a problem. If you head outdoors and aren't sure when you are getting home, you have to have dry feet. I don't wear athletic shoes except for a cheap pair of canvas sneakers for exercise class. You might discover an outdoor shoe/boot that is comfortable and looks decent. My husband wore his everyday comfortable leather walking shoes.

johnthedorf

You may want to shop Tyson's or Pentagon's Nordstrom. I don't recommend canvas but then again I wasn't a "shoe dog". Tell them what you told us.

GoTravel

Cole Haan has teamed with Nike to make some really lovely shoes.

I don't know if you are male for female but:

www.ColeHaan.com and check on Nike.

SavTrav

I feel your pain - I have an extremely narrow foot. And it takes forever to find a shoe that fits and I can afford.

Once you figure out what style - here's where I have to buy shoes. They are all great about returns/refunds.

Nordstrom's Online. They have an advanced search that will weed out your size.

www.zappos.com They have an extensive search for sizes/colors/types.

Mason525

Hi-
How about a Keen brand sandal? I wear them with hiking socks in cooler weather & swear by them for comfort. They sell them at the "Walking Store" chain but I know know how large they come. My foot is very wide. Besides comfort for general walking They take up less packing room than many alternatives. Hope this helps. Good luck. Meg

Intrepid1

Bewlieve me, what you are planning to do does not in any way, shape, or form, require any sort of "heavy duty" footwear.

Get a second pair of Topsiders and be done with it.

tuckerdc

Thanks for all the help/suggestions! I'm thinking I'll just get a new pair of Sperry Topsiders (since I already know they're comfortable, and not too bulky), and will do a water repellent spray on both pair.

Zappos and Nordstroms are great - they already are favorite on-line haunts!

Gardyloo

If you're going to be in Anchorage, the Nordstrom store there has an excellent shoe department, and no sales tax.